Poor Weather? Don’t Risk It

04th May 2018

Operating a Crane in Poor Weather? Don’t Risk It!

Hurrying to meet deadlines in poor conditions can be risky. For crane operators, wet weather can be potentially lethal. In this article, we’re taking a look at some problematic scenarios on a jobsite and how best to avoid them.

The Dangers of Working in Bad Conditions

When schedules need to be met, conscientious crane operators and management work extremely hard to keep the work moving. In these cases, it’s common to not notice a turn in weather and the jobsite suddenly loses stability and visibility. Failing to cease working can result in accidents, machine failures or worse. Your cranes and other vehicles can lose traction, causing damage to the site itself and potential injuries for all workers.

Load problems and bad weather are a dangerous mix. The modern cranes have excellent traction, but one slip and the machine could be a write-off. These results are inevitable so avoid operating cranes in adverse, windy weather of any kind.

Basic Precautions in Bad Weather

These standard precautions are straightforward and effective for most weather conditions. Staying ahead of schedule isn’t worth the possible outcomes.

Heavy Rain

It is advisable to use this weather as an excuse to get ahead on paperwork. The lack of visibility alone is an accident waiting to happen and the risks are so high that damage of some kind is almost certain.

Thunderstorms

Thunderstorms are a very real risk for crane operators as these machines are usually the largest metal objects on a worksite. When raised, cranes can become lightning rods, causing system damage at the very least. In a storm, make sure you get your crane undercover and wait until you’re sure it is safe to continue operations.

Saturated Ground

An all too common problem that is trickier to handle than it seems. The ground isn’t just wet; it’s saturated under the turf, even if the moisture isn’t visible from the surface. That means that it may or may not support a heavy crane and becomes a risk not worth taking. Check the ground thoroughly before restarting operations.

Standard Operating Procedures

The other critical issue is to make sure your employees know what to do in bad weather. Make sure all managers, on-site staff and crane operators are safe in bad weather conditions. Some people really don’t know when to stop, so make the protocol clear for all conditions.

After bad weather, the site should be checked for risks. This includes materials being handled, terrain, and basic checks on your cranes. A senior manager should make the call whether it’s safe to resume work or not.

Talk to Surf City Cranes about Crane Hire

Our range of machines can stand up to bad weather better than their older counterparts, minimising risks and damage while you’re clearing the site. For modern crane hire and crane accessories on the Gold Coast and in Brisbane, simply call Surf City Cranes. Call 1300 444 737 or 0402 269 535 or contact us online anytime.